Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Carved gateway marks marae anniversary

Updated at 6:31 am on 6 December 2011

A seven metre carved waharoa (gateway) has been unveiled in a dawn service at Victoria University Marae in Wellington.

It was carved from totara by master carver Takirirangi Smith to mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the marae.

Dr Smith also led the carving of the marae meeting house, Te Tumu Herenga Waka.

The gateway stands at the entrance to the marae between two buildings on Kelburn Parade in Wellington.

Taurima (marae manager) Te Ripowai Higgins says Dr Smith has connected, both visually and symbolically, all carvings on the marae. They all carry the common theme of Maui.

Ms Higgens says the marae is pan-tribal, catering for students and staff from many iwi.

She says the marae is the focal point of university life as all new students, as well as visitors to the university, enter through it.

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